Spiritual Transformation: Moses, Pharaoh, and the Journey to Yeshua

 

All of us who come to know Yah, His son, and His Torah, undergo a profound awakening. We transition from living in the realm of spiritual slumber, marching to the beat of Satan's drum. Engaging in self-indulgence and adhering to human doctrines as if they were teachings from El Shaddai. Eventually, our tranquility is disrupted, and we awaken from the illusion to perceive the false reality of the world we were brought up in. We willingly exchange our comfortable existence, embraced by the world, to be transformed into the likeness of Yeshua Messiah. This awakening finds a powerful parallel in the life of Moses, a man raised as an Egyptian in Pharaoh's household. Initially surrounded by the luxuries of royalty, he later opened his eyes and inclined his heart to heed the voice of Elohim.     

“And in those days it came to be, when Mosheh (Moses) was grown, that he went out to his brothers and looked at their burdens. And he saw a Mitsrian (Egyptian) striking a Hebrew, one of his brothers.” (Exodus 2:11)

While information about the early life of Moses remains limited, it is presumed that, having been raised in Pharaoh's household, he identified himself as an Egyptian. Growing through childhood and adolescence immersed in Egyptian life, adhering to their customs and practices, a transformative moment occurs for Moses. His perception shifts, and he becomes aware of the true identity of his brethren. For the first time, he acknowledges the hardships his brothers endure.

Similarly, our upbringing can shape our perspectives. Some of us may have been nurtured to reject the Torah and those who follow its ways. This holds true for many emerging from Christianity, including myself, or any other faith that contradicts the Father's word. Elohim stirs something within us, opening our eyes to the lies and deception masked as truth. At this juncture, we face a crucial decision: do we close our eyes, harden our hearts, and delve deeper into the doctrines ingrained during our upbringing? Or, do we take a stand and resist the adversary? 

“So, he turned this way and that way, and when he saw no one, he struck the Mitsrian (Egyptian) and hid him in the sand. (Exodus 2:11-12)

The act of Moses killing the Egyptian and burying him in the sand goes beyond a mere physical deed; it holds profound spiritual significance. It symbolizes Moses slaying his inner Egyptian, shedding the identity of the old self he once was. This moment marks the pinnacle of his choice to turn away from Satan's kingdom and embark on the path of teshuva (repentance).

“Knowing this, that our old man was impaled with Him, so that the body of sin might be rendered powerless, to serve sin no longer.” (Romans 6:6)

“That you put off – with regard to your former behavior – the old man, being corrupted according to the desires of the deceit, and to be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the renewed man which was created according to Elohim, in righteousness and set-apartness of the truth.” (Ephesians 4:22-24)

Similar to Moses, we must slay our inner self, fashioned in the image of various sins. This act is crucial for liberating ourselves from the shackles of unrighteousness and breaking free from the dominion of the metaphorical Pharaoh. Through this process, we attain the freedom to openly worship El Shaddai with completeness and truth. While surrendering the title of being a son of the earthly Pharaoh in this world, we gain access to a superior kingdom if we endure until the end.

“And Pharaoh heard of this matter, and he sought to kill Mosheh. But Mosheh fled from the face of Pharaoh and dwelt in the land of Miḏyan. And he sat down by a well.” (Exodus 2:15)

Pharaoh serves as an analogy for Hasatan, and Egypt symbolizes Hasatan's kingdom. When Hasatan discovers that we have liberated ourselves from his dominion, having overcome our former selves, he then seeks to destroy us. It's important to grasp that Hasatan is unconcerned about those already under his influence; they are already captive to his power and illusions. His true apprehension lies with those who resist his rule and pursue Yeshua in loving obedience to the Father.

“And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to fight with the remnant of her seed, those guarding the commands of Elohim and possessing the witness of יהושע (Yeshua) Messiah.” (Revelations 12:17)

Take note of the conclusion of Exodus 2:15, where, following his escape from Pharaoh, Moses discovers solace at a well. This holds profound spiritual significance, as the well serves as a representation of the Messiah, symbolizing how we find peace and restoration from the well of Yeshua Messiah.

“And Ya‛aqoḇ’s (Jacob’s) fountain was there. So יהושע (Yeshua), being wearied from the journey, was sitting thus at the fountain. It was about the sixth hour.” (John 4:6)

“Yeshua answered and said to her, “Everyone drinking of this water shall thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water I give him shall certainly never thirst. And the water that I give him shall become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.” (John 4:13-14)

All of us who have undergone a crossing-over experience (Hebrew) share a profound awakening, reminiscent of Moses thousands of years ago beneath the Egyptian sun. In a land much like our own, wholly devoted to false gods and the empty philosophies of men, where the truth was suppressed, and those of Elohim were ensnared in a system governed by fallen angels and demons. Reflecting on Moses's physical departure from Egypt reveals the spiritual battle that unfolded. This struggle against sin, this journey out of Egypt, is one in which we all partake. Let us remain diligent in testing all things.

P.S.

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Exploring the Contrast: Yeshua vs. Jesus in Sabbath, Food, and Holidays

 

To preface this article, it would behoove me to state that I am not discussing the names themselves. Whether you call the Messiah Yeshua or Jesus is not my concern; instead, what I am concerned about is that for most people the name Jesus conjures up a specific idea of the Messiah that is in stark contrast to the image created with the name Yeshua. To put it in simple terms, the Greek Jesus came to do away with the Torah and founded a new religion called Christianity, with the Church replacing Israel. Yeshua, however, came to fill up the Torah to its highest application, reminding the people of how to properly follow the set-apart teachings of Yah, and did not replace Israel with the Church.

Several topics could be brought up to show the distinction between the Greek Jesus and the Hebrew Yeshua, but I have selected three that can be easily identified and covered in a single article. If the need arises, then a part two will surely be on the way, Yah willing. In the meantime, the three topics to be discussed are the Sabbath, food, and holidays.

The Sabbath

The Sabbath is a very important day for the creator of everything.  It is not only the day He rested after finishing creation,

“Thus the heavens and the earth were completed, and all their array. And in the seventh day Elohim completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had made. And Elohim blessed the seventh day and set it apart, because on it He rested from all His work which Elohim in creating had made...” (Genesis 2:1-3)

It is also a sign between Him and His people,

“And you, speak to the children of Yisra’ĕl (Israel), saying, ‘My Sabbaths you are to guard, by all means, for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations, to know that I, יהוה, am setting you apart.” (Exodus 31:13)

The importance of the Sabbath day cannot be overstated or overlooked. It is not a day to be made into a principle for any day of the week; it is an eternal sign between Yah and those who know Him.

After briefly showing the high regard Elohim has and expects us to have for the Sabbath day, how did/does the Greek Jesus view the Sabbath? Well, according to Christian scholars, he broke the Sabbath on a few occasions, and Christians do not have to keep the Sabbath because they are in the Church age now. Before examining the scriptures that such schools of thought bring up, it should be noted that the idea of the Church age or Yahweh interacting with humans in dispensations is utter lunacy and unfounded in scripture. Elohim does not change; a perfect being has no need for change.

“For I am יהוה, I shall not change, and you, O sons of Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob), shall not come to an end.” (Malachi 3:6)

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no change, nor shadow of turning.” (James 1:17)   

There are two sections routinely used by Christianity to show that the Messiah broke the Sabbath, and in each of them, with a little bit of knowledge of the Torah and logic, you can see the scriptures do not support Yeshua breaking the Sabbath that His father established.

“And it came to be on a Sabbath that He went through grainfields, and His taught ones were plucking the heads of grain and were eating, rubbing them with the hands. And some of the Pharisees said to them, “Why are you doing what is not right to do on the Sabbath?” (Luke 6:1-2)

Many will point to the Pharisees, stating that Yeshua and his disciples broke the Sabbath simply because they said so. This would be a false assumption since the Pharisees themselves do not keep the Torah but uphold the Talmud (traditions of men), as seen here-

“But He answering, said to them, “Why do you also transgress the command of Elohim because of your tradition?” (Matthew 15:3)

Despite the Pharisees' accusations, Yeshua and his disciples were in the right when they were plucking grain to eat on the Sabbath.

“When you come into your neighbor’s standing grain, you shall pluck the heads with your hand, but do not use a sickle on your neighbor’s standing grain.” (Deuteronomy 23:25)

According to the Torah, it is permissible to pluck grain to eat on the Sabbath, but not for harvesting. Yeshua and his disciples were not out reaping on the Sabbath, just grabbing a bite to eat on the road, perfectly in alignment with the Torah.

The next section that is often brought up is the instance where Yeshua healed the man on the Sabbath.

“Now it was a Sabbath when יהושע made the clay and opened his eyes. Therefore the Pharisees also asked him again how he had received his sight. He said to them, “He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see.” Therefore some of the Pharisees said, “This Man is not from Elohim, because He does not guard the Sabbath.” Others said, “How is a man who is a sinner able to do such miracles?” And there was a division among them.” (John 9:14-16)

There are no commands against healing or doing good on the Sabbath; this is a man-made rule invented by the Pharisees as seen in the Talmud:

“R. Hiyya the son of Abba stated in the name of R. Levi: It is forbidden to place saliva on an ailing eye on the Sabbath, for that would be equivalent to healing on the Sabbath.” (Midrash Tanchuma, Noach 8)

Food

The verse commonly cited to argue that the Messiah abolished dietary instructions is located in the Gospel of Mark. In numerous translations, an interpretative addition is present in parentheses, influencing the meaning of the text.

“Are you so dull?” he asked. “Don’t you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them? For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.) (Mark 7:18-19 NIV)

This error carries significant weight, given that the oldest manuscripts lack the statement 'In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.' It highlights the extent to which men may go to manipulate the scriptures to fit their agenda. Translations that adhere more closely to the source material avoid including such interpretative additions by the translators.

“And He said to them, “Are you also without understanding? Do you not perceive that whatever enters a man from outside is unable to defile him, because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and is eliminated, thus purging all the foods?” (Mark 7:18-19)

Maintaining a Hebraic understanding of food involves recognizing that it does not mean anything that you can physically consume. In Hebrew tradition, the definition of food is limited to the animals listed by Yah as permissible in the Torah, found in Leviticus 11.

If you carefully read Mark 7 in its entirety, it becomes evident that the practice of ceremonially washing hands before eating, as discussed (consult the Talmud for context), is revealed as a tradition of men rather than a commandment from Yah. Additionally, historical research indicates that there was a time when the belief persisted that consuming bread with unwashed hands could permit demons to enter the body. Yeshua, however, asserts that eating bread with unwashed hands does not defile or profane the body; rather, it is the committing of sin that brings defilement. This is evident as he proceeds to enumerate several sins. For more information, please see the article 'To Eat or Not to Eat'.

Holidays

The Christian church commonly teaches that the Messiah was born on December 25, celebrated as Christmas, and was resurrected on Easter. However, this belief is a clear distortion, openly acknowledged by the Catholic church, which admits to assimilating pagan holidays and 'Christianizing' them. I have delved into this topic in several articles, which are available for viewing on my 'Pagan Holidays' page.

Yeshua, the Hebrew Messiah, did not observe pagan holidays but instead adhered to the Biblical feast days as outlined in the Torah. Scriptural evidence supports this, offering examples of his observance of these feast days, including a reference to his celebration of Hanukkah.

Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread:

“And on the first day of Unleavened Bread the taught ones came to יהושע, saying to Him, “Where do You wish us to prepare for You to eat the Pĕsaḥ?” And He said, “Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, “My time is near. I am to perform the Pĕsaḥ at your house with My taught ones.”’ ” And the taught ones did as יהושע had ordered them, and prepared the Pĕsaḥ. And when evening came, He sat down with the twelve.” (Matthew 26:17-20)

The Feast of Tabernacles:

“And the festival of the Yehudim was near, the Festival of Sukkot. So His brothers said to Him, ‘Get away from here and go into Yehudah, so that Your taught ones also see the works that You are doing. For no one acts in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If You do these works, show Yourself to the world. For even His brothers did not believe in Him. Yeshua therefore said to them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready. “It is impossible for the world to hate you, but it hates Me because I bear witness of it, that its works are wicked. “You go up to this festival. I am not yet going up to this festival, for My time has not yet been filled.” And having said this to them, He stayed in Galil. But when His brothers had gone up to the festival, then He also went up, not openly, but as it were in secret.” (John 7:2-10)

Hanukkah:

“At that time the Ḥanukkah came to be in Yerushalayim, and it was winter. And יהושע was walking in the Set-apart Place, in the porch of Shelomoh (Solomon).” (John 7:22-23)

Yeshua the Messiah

Yeshua, the historical, factual, Hebrew, obedient son of Yah, did not come to do away with the Torah, or to found a new church:

“Do not think that I came to destroy the Torah or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to complete. For truly, I say to you, till the heaven and the earth pass away, one yod or one tittle shall by no means pass from the Torah till all be done. “Whoever, then, breaks one of the least of these commands, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the reign of the heavens; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the reign of the heavens.” (Matthew 5:17-19)

But He came to bring back the lost sheep of the house of Israel:

“And He answering, said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Yisra’ĕl.” (Matthew 15:24)

While the world may celebrate and worship a false Greek Jesus, for me and my household we will follow the Hebrew Yeshua in Torah obedience to the Father. Continue to test all things, and may the Ruach Hakodesh lead you into all Truth.

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The Purpose of Yeshua's Death: Redeeming the Bride of Judah - Understanding the Torah of Jealousy

 

The death of Yeshua and the purpose behind it are widely talked about and theorized. There are many aspects to this execution that are worthy of ponderance and research, and today I have decided to share some insight I have gathered in regards to Messiah redeeming the bride. While the first time I touched on this topic the focus was on the House of Israel, today, the House of Judah will be the centerpiece, and how Yeshua took the punishment of the unfaithful wife’s place.  

The Torah of Jealousy

“And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, having blotted out that which was written by hand against us – by the dogmas – which stood against us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the stake.” (Colossians 2:13-14)

I have long understood this to be referring to the punishments we deserved for breaking the set-apart Torah.  However, the deeper understanding that I did not comprehend for a time is how this is a reference to the punishment of the adulterous wife, also called the law of jealousy.   In Numbers chapter five, we read about the process a husband could take if he suspected his wife of being unfaithful. One of the key steps is for the priest to write out the curses the adulterous wife would endure. 

“And יהוה spoke to Mosheh, saying, “Speak to the children of Yisra’ĕl, and say to them, ‘When any man’s wife turns aside and has committed a trespass against him, and a man has intercourse with her, and it is hidden from the eyes of her husband, and it is concealed that she has defiled herself, and there was no witness against her, nor was she caught, and a spirit of jealousy comes upon him and he becomes jealous of his wife who has defiled herself, or a spirit of jealousy comes upon him and he becomes jealous of his wife although she has not defiled herself, then the man shall bring his wife to the priest. And he shall bring the offering for her, one-tenth of an ĕphah of barley flour. He is not to pour oil on it or put frankincense on it, because it is a grain offering of jealousy, an offering for remembering, for bringing crookedness to remembrance. And the priest shall bring her near, and shall make her stand before יהוה.  And the priest shall take set-apart water in an earthen vessel, and take some of the dust that is on the floor of the Dwelling Place and put it into the water. And the priest shall make the woman stand before יהוה, and shall uncover the woman’s head, and put the offering for remembering in her hands, which is the grain offering of jealousy, while the priest holds in his hand the bitter water that brings a curse. “And the priest shall make her swear, and say to the woman If no man has lain with you, and if you have not turned aside to uncleanness under your husband’s authority, be free from this bitter water that brings a curse.But if you have turned aside under your husband’s authority, and if you have defiled yourself and some man other than your husband has lain with you” – then the priest shall make the woman swear with the oath of the curse, and he shall say to the woman – “יהוה make you a curse and an oath among your people, when יהוה makes your thigh waste away and your belly swell, and this water that causes the curse shall go into your inward parts, and make your belly swell and your thigh waste away.” And the woman shall say, “Amĕn, amĕn.And the priest shall write these curses in a book, and shall wipe them off into the bitter water, and shall make the woman drink the bitter water that brings the curse, and the water that brings the curse shall enter her to become bitter.” (Numbers 5:11-24)

At the end of this set of verses, we read about what was written against Judah that Paul is referencing in Colossians 2:13-14, that being the curses attributed to the adulterous wife. Another thing to keep in mind is that Elohim is a husband to Israel and is jealous when it comes to His people.

“Not like the covenant I made with their fathers in the day when I strengthened their hand to bring them out of the land of Mitsrayim, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them,” declares יהוה.” (Jeremiah 31:32)

“For יהוה your Elohim is a consuming fire, a jealous Ěl.” (Deuteronomy 4:24)

Judah the Unfaithful

In part one, I discussed how the House of Israel was divorced and according to the Torah could not be remarried to Elohim, unless the husband died. For more information, please see my article “Redeeming the Bride.” Yet, Judah needed rescuing as well for while they were not divorced like Israel was, they were in many ways worse.  

“And it came to be, through her frivolous whoring, that she defiled the land and committed adultery with stones and wood. “And yet for all this her treacherous sister Yehuḏah has not turned to Me with all her heart, but falsely,” declares יהוה. And יהוה said to me, “Backsliding Yisra’ĕl has shown herself more righteous than treacherous Yehuḏah.” (Jeremiah 3:9-11)

With all this in mind, we can start to piece together how the Torah of Jealously comes into play between Judah and Yah. Even more so, how the punishments prescribed for the adulterous woman, mirror the afflictions Yeshua endured. 

The Cup of Bitter Waters

Remember that after the curses are written on a scroll they are wiped off in bitter water, which is later drank by the wife. This same principle was applied to Yeshua as well when he took Judah’s place. Starting with the symbolic drinking of the cup of bitter waters when Yeshua prayed in Gethsemane.

“And going forward a little, He fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I desire, but as You desire.” (Matthew 26:39)

This is why Paul makes the following statement in 2 Corinthians. 

“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of Elohim.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Because he recognized that Yeshua had taken Judah’s place in the Torah of jealousy. Judah, the adulterous wife, had committed sin, but Yeshua took that role from Judah so that the House of Judah could be made righteous in front of Elohim.

A Curse Among His People

In Numbers 5:21, we read how the woman proven to be unfaithful would become a curse among her people and how they would denounce her. This is reflected in Yeshua when he died, and the people began to ridicule him. 

“And those passing by were blaspheming Him, shaking their heads.” (Matthew 27:39)

Thigh to Waste Away

In the scriptures, the thigh is symbolic of an individual’s integrity or authority. This is exemplified in the following passages.

“Then the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master, and swore to him concerning this matter.” (Genesis 24:9)

“And the time for Yisra’ĕl to die drew near, and he called his son Yosĕph and said to him, “Now if I have found favor in your eyes, please put your hand under my thigh, and show loving commitment and truth to me. Please do not bury me in Mitsrayim,” (Genesis 47:29)

“And out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should smite the nations. And He shall shepherd them with a rod of iron. And He treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Ěl Shaddai. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written: SOVEREIGN OF SOVEREIGNS AND MASTER OF MASTERS.” (Revelation 19:15-16)

Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that the wasting away of the thigh would be the loss of authority or credibility. That is why, as Yeshua hung on the tree, the people mocked him for saying he was the son of Elohim. His credibility was lost among the masses.

“And those passing by were blaspheming Him, shaking their heads, and saying, “You who destroy the Dwelling Place and build it in three days, save Yourself! If You are the Son of Elohim, come down from the stake.” And likewise the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocking, said, “He saved others – He is unable to save Himself. If He is the Sovereign of Yisra’ĕl, let Him now come down from the stake, and we shall believe Him. He trusted in Elohim, let Him rescue Him now if He desires Him, for He said, ‘I am the Son of Elohim.” (Matthew 27:39-43)

The physical element of the thigh wasting away is the complete muscle failure Yeshua experienced while being crucified. During a crucifixion, the person could push up with their legs, giving them the ability to breathe. However, the longer a person hangs, the harder it becomes to sustain active muscle engagement. Try doing wall sits for an inkling of an idea. In time, Yeshua’s muscles in the thighs wasted away, and he was no longer able to keep himself up, and he gave up his spirit.

Abdomen to Swell

While the spiritual aspect of the abdomen swelling is currently lost on me, Yeshua, during the crucifixion, did experience physical swelling of the abdomen. As his lungs filled with fluid, they would have pressed on his stomach, forcing his abdomen to swell. This is most likely the reason why blood and water flowed forth from Yeshua when the Roman soldier stabbed his side.

“Therefore the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first, and of the other who was impaled with Him, but when they came to יהושע and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and instantly blood and water came out.” (John 19:32-34)

Conclusion

Yeshua’s crucifixion allowed for the House of Israel to be remarried to Elohim, and by taking the cup of bitterness from the House of Judah, he washed them clean of their adultery. It is by this alone that both houses can draw near to Yah, it is by his sacrifice that the fractured whole House of Israel can be made whole again. He is a role model for husbands to emulate, he is a High Priest perfect to intercede for us, and a King worthy of serving. 

P.S.

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Examining The Life Book: A Thoughtful Exploration

 Last month, while working on my article about the Good News of the Messiah, I received a thoughtful gift from a Baptist church: a little booklet. Though the person who gave it to me had good intentions, they did not realize that I do not stand on the right side of the river (Christianity) nor on the left side (Judaism), but see myself being in the river with the Messiah. 

Appreciating the gesture, I took it upon myself to examine the contents of the booklet, especially in light of my recent article. I wanted to determine whether its teachings aligned with the true Good News and other biblical topics or if they veered towards a different interpretation, as Peter and Paul had warned about.

Biblical Cosmology

Not directly related to the gospel, but a topic worth discussing. At the outset of the book, it asserts: 

“In the Bible, God says that everything He made was good. From massive galaxies soaked with shiny stars…”

However, this modern interpretation of the scriptures deviates from the cosmological framework presented in the scriptures. I have authored several articles delving into the subject of Biblical Cosmology, which you can find and read here.

Critique Number 1

“Snakes can’t be trusted. Satan (an angel who was kicked out of heaven when he tried to take over)…”

Snakes cannot be entirely dismissed as untrustworthy creatures. While some associate snakes with evil, it is important to note that the Seraphim, a class of angels, are described as serpentine beings. Moreover, the presence of snakes on Noah's Ark indicates that they have a place in the natural order, sanctioned by Elohim. And as shown below, snakes have been used to exemplify Elohim’s power. 

“And יהוה spoke to Mosheh (Moses) and to Aharon (Aaron), saying, When Pharaoh speaks to you, saying, ‘Show a miracle for yourselves,’ then you shall say to Aharon (Aaron), ‘Take your rod and throw it before Pharaoh, and let it become a serpent.’ So Mosheh (Moses) and Aharon(Aaron) went in to Pharaoh, and they did so, as יהוה commanded. And Aharon (Aaron) threw his rod before Pharaoh and before his servants, and it became a serpent. But Pharaoh also called the wise men and the practices of witchcraft. And they, the magicians of Mitsrayim (Egypt), also did so with their magic. And they, each one, threw down his rod, and they became serpents. But the rod of Aharon (Aaron) swallowed up their rods.” (Exodus 7:8-12)

Elohim could have had the staff turn into any animal but he chose for it to become a snake.

“And the people spoke against Elohim and against Mosheh (Moses), “Why have you brought us up out of Mitsrayim (Egypt) to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and our being loathes this light bread.” And יהוה sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people. And many of the people of Yisra’ĕl (Israel) died. Then the people came to Mosheh (Moses), and said, “We have sinned, for we have spoken against יהוה and against you. Pray to יהוה to take away the serpents from us.” So Mosheh (Moses) prayed on behalf of the people. And יהוה said to Mosheh (Moses), “Make a fiery serpent, and set it on a pole. And it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live.” So Mosheh (Moses) made a bronze serpent, and put it on a pole. And it came to be, if a serpent had bitten anyone, when he looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.” (Numbers 21:5-9)

In this instance, Yah uses snakes to reprimand His people, and then instructs Moses to create a bronze serpent so that the people may be healed upon looking at it. Snakes are not evil, dangerous, sure, but they serve a purpose. Furthermore, in my article titled "Was the Serpent Really Satan?" I delve into the intricacies of the Hebrew term used in Genesis chapter 3, where the word 'Nahash' can also signify Seraphim. This exploration sheds light on the multifaceted nature of scriptural language and its potential for deeper interpretations. Additionally, I present evidence in the same article that suggests Hasatan (referring to Satan) has not been cast out of heaven at the time of the events in Genesis, as later biblical references, including those in Revelation, indicate he still retains access to heaven and even participates in heavenly conflicts.

Critique Number 2

“In that one bite, trust was shattered…as a result, evil (sin) entered into the perfect world.”

“Because of their sin, death entered the world.”

“Sin was now between them.”

As we progress on this journey, it becomes essential to clarify our terms, especially at the beginning of this book. The Life Book, however, has chosen to maintain a vague definition of sin. Although it acknowledges sin as a breach of trust, an embodiment of evil, and a path leading to death and separation from the Father, it does not precisely define what sin entails. This lack of definition leaves the concept of sin open to interpretation, a trend that can be found in many Christian works. 

To gain a deeper understanding of sin, we turn to the Bible, which clearly defines sin as the transgression of the Torah. The Torah represents the Father's set-apart instructions for righteous living, providing a path to follow that leads us to walk in His ways and receive His blessings.

“Everyone who commits sin also breaks the law (Torah); sin is the breaking of law (Torah).” (1 John 3:4)

Torah is the instructions for righteous living given by the Father.

“See, I have set before you today life and good, and death and evil,” in that I am commanding you today to love יהוה your Elohim, to walk in His ways, and to guard His commands, and His laws, and His right-rulings. And you shall live and increase, and יהוה your Elohim shall bless you in the land which you go to possess.” (Deuteronomy 30:15-16)

The very first command given, as recorded in the Bible, was not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This command highlights the importance of adhering to God's ways and avoiding disobedience. The last quote pulled for this section:

“Because the flood did not break the curse, sin and rebellion against God’s ways started all over again.”

Comes close to defining sin, but ultimately does not explain what the ways of Elohim are. Sin, the transgression of the Torah, led to separation from the Father and the introduction of death. As we continue on this exploration, we should seek to comprehend the significance of following Elohim's ways, which were outlined in the Torah, and understand the profound effects of sin on humanity and the world.

Critique Number 3

“God gave Moses 10 laws…”

It is crucial to dispel a common misconception propagated by some interpretations within Christianity. Yah indeed gave Moses more than just ten laws or commandments. A closer examination of Exodus chapter twenty reveals that Elohim spoke the Ten Words audibly for everyone to hear, not exclusively for Moses. However, the magnitude of this divine manifestation was so awe-inspiring that it overwhelmed the people, leading them to express fear and reluctance to hear further. 

“And all the people saw the thunders, the lightning flashes, the voice of the shophar, and the mountain smoking. And the people saw it, and they trembled and stood at a distance, and said to Mosheh, “You speak with us and we hear, but let not Elohim speak with us, lest we die.” And Mosheh said to the people, “Do not fear, for Elohim has come to prove you, and in order that His fear be before you, so that you do not sin.” So the people stood at a distance, but Mosheh drew near the thick darkness where Elohim was.” (Exodus 20:18-21)

Following the grand encounter with Elohim, Moses ascended the mountain and received additional instructions on how to live, beyond the Ten Words. It is essential to clarify that the notion of the "Ten Commandments" as a standalone entity is misleading. These statements are, in fact, integral to the marriage covenant forged between Yah and His people. In the scripture, they are not referred to as the "Ten Commandments" but rather as the words of the covenant.

“And he was there with יהוה forty days and forty nights. He did not eat bread and he did not drink water. And He wrote on the tablets the Words of the covenant, the Ten Words.” (Exodus 34:28)

It is essential to emphasize that the Ten Words are not to be viewed in isolation from the rest of the Torah. They should not be perceived as exclusively universal or moral commands, while the remaining parts of the Torah are considered archaic or less relevant, as some interpretations within Christianity might suggest. Instead, the Ten Words serve as a foundational expression, capturing the essence of the covenant between Yah and His people.

The rest of the Torah, comprising the detailed instructions and teachings, serves to elaborate on and provide practical application of these fundamental principles found in the Ten Words. Together, the entirety of the Torah forms a cohesive and comprehensive guide for righteous living, outlining the set-apart principles and precepts that underpin the covenantal relationship with Yah. It is through understanding and following both the essence of the Ten Words and the elaborations in the Torah that we gain a holistic perspective on how to live in alignment with Yah's will.

Critique Number 4

Yeshua’s Sacrifice

I have not included specific references in this passage as they would require listing several sentences. However, the references can be found in the following subsections: "Blood Payment" and "The Promise."

In line with observations about Christianity, it is evident that there is often a failure to fully comprehend or acknowledge the profound reasons behind Yeshua's coming, death, and subsequent role as the eternal high priest in the heavenly tabernacle. Regrettably, his sacrifice is frequently reduced to catchphrases that fail to encapsulate the entire essence of the verses they reference. For instance, the common phrase "He died to save you from your sins" only scratches the surface and does not fully capture the deep significance and multifaceted aspects of Yeshua's sacrifice.

It is vital to understand that Yeshua's primary mission was to seek and save the lost sheep of the house of Israel. This singular focus is of utmost importance in comprehending the purpose and scope of his ministry. 

“And He answering, said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Yisra’ĕl (Israel).” (Matthew 15:24)

The reason behind this lies in the fact that the house of Israel was divorced. According to the Torah, once a wife is divorced and defiled by another, it becomes impossible for the former husband and wife to be remarried. This circumstance creates a significant barrier to reconciliation and restoration between them. 

“When a man takes a wife and shall marry her, then it shall be, if she finds no favor in his eyes because he has found a matter of uncoveredness in her, and he shall write her a certificate of divorce, and put it in her hand, and send her out of his house, and if she left his house and went and became another man’s wife, and the latter husband shall hate her and write her a certificate of divorce, and put it in her hand, and send her out of his house, or when the latter husband dies who took her to be his wife, then her former husband who sent her away is not allowed to take her back to be his wife after she has been defiled, for that would be an abomination before יהוה. And do not bring sin on the land which יהוה your Elohim is giving you as an inheritance.” (Deuteronomy 24:1-4)

As we know, Yah entered a covenantal marriage with Israel, forming a sacred bond. However, over time, the nation of Israel divided into two kingdoms, known as the house of Israel and Judah. Tragically, due to their continued disobedience and waywardness, Yah felt compelled to divorce the house of Israel. This unfortunate outcome resulted from their failure to uphold the covenant and follow His righteous ways. 

“And יהוה said to me in the days of Yoshiyahu (Josiah) the sovereign, “Have you seen what backsliding Yisra’ĕl (Israel) has done? She has gone up on every high mountain and under every green tree, and there committed whoring. “And after she had done all these, I said ‘Return to Me.’ But she did not return. And her treacherous sister Yehuḏah (Judah) saw it. “And I saw that for all the causes for which backsliding Yisra’ĕl (Israel) had committed adultery, I had put her away and given her a certificate of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Yehuḏah (Judah) did not fear, but went and committed whoring too.” (Jeremiah 3:6-8)

This situation poses a significant predicament for the house of Israel because, according to the Torah, they are prohibited from being remarried (reentering the covenant) with Yah. However, there is a crucial aspect to consider—this prohibition only lasts as long as the former husband is alive. In other words, the barrier to reconciliation and return for the house of Israel exists only within a specific time frame while the former husband is still alive. This distinction provides a glimmer of hope for their eventual reconciliation with Yah. 

“Or do you not know, brothers – for I speak to those knowing the Torah – that the Torah rules over a man as long as he lives? For the married woman has been bound by Torah to the living husband, but if the husband dies, she is released from the Torah concerning her husband. So then, while her husband lives, she shall be called an adulteress if she becomes another man’s. But if her husband dies, she is free from that part of the Torah, so that she is not an adulteress, having become another man’s. So my brothers, you also were put to death to the Torah through the body of Messiah, for you to become another’s, the One who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to Elohim.” (Romans 7:1-4)

Yeshua, the husband to both Israel and Judah, made the ultimate sacrifice by giving his life to pave the way for the house of Israel's reconciliation with the Father (Read "Redeeming the Bride" to learn more). This was the primary purpose of Yeshua's coming—to provide a path for the house of Israel to return to the divine fold. Through enduring trials and challenges, Yeshua became a High Priest who can genuinely empathize with humanity, understanding our struggles and weaknesses. His role as the compassionate High Priest is a testament to his love and devotion in guiding us back to the Father. 

“For we do not have a High Priest unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who was tried in all respects as we are, apart from sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)

Regarding the role of High Priest, it is crucial to recognize that Yeshua is currently fulfilling that position in the heavens. However, this aspect is often overlooked by many people. Throughout history, the priesthood has consistently carried the burden of the people's sins, and this is precisely what Yeshua has done and continues to do for the covenanted community.

As the ultimate High Priest, Yeshua bears the weight of our sins, interceding on behalf of the faithful. His sacrificial act and ongoing role as the High Priest offer redemption and atonement, exemplifying his unwavering dedication to those who have entered a covenant with the Father.

 “Because the Lĕwites shall do the service of the Tent of Appointment, so they themselves bear their crookedness. A law forever, throughout your generations: that among the children of Yisra’ĕl they are to have no inheritance.” (Numbers 18:23)

“He would see the result of the suffering of His life and be satisfied. Through His knowledge My righteous Servant makes many righteous, and He bears their crookednesses. Therefore, I give Him a portion among the great, and He divides the spoil with the strong, because He poured out His being unto death, and He was counted with the transgressors, and He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.” (Isaiah 53: 11-12)

Yeshua holds the esteemed position of the King High Priest of Israel, and the remarkable aspect is that anyone can become a part of Elohim's kingdom. Does not matter if you were born a gentile, you can die a Hebrew, with Yeshua as your Master.

As always, I encourage you to test everything, including these teachings, and may the Ruach Hakodesh (the Holy Spirit) guide you into all truth.

P.S.

Check out some of my books! Available in both print and Kindle versions.

Understanding the Good News of Yeshua: A Deeper Look at His Teachings

 

What is the Good News of Yeshua?

There is a distinction that needs to be made between the Good News of Yeshua and the Good News about Yeshua. The Good News of Yeshua refers to the gospel he taught, while the Good News about Yeshua pertains to his coming, death, burial, resurrection, and his second coming. Today, I choose to focus on the Good News of Yeshua because most people are already aware of the Good News about him. By neglecting the gospel of Yeshua, we fail to understand the true Good news of the scriptures.

It is important to recognize that these two aspects are not one and the same. For many, the gospel is centered around the death, burial, and resurrection of Yeshua. However, this is not the Good News that Yeshua himself taught, as his disciples were caught off guard when he spoke about his impending death.

“And taking the twelve aside, He said to them, “See, we are going up to Yerushalayim (Jerusalem), and all that has been written by the prophets about the Son of Aḏam shall be accomplished. “For He shall be delivered up to the nations and shall be mocked and insulted and spat upon, “and having flogged Him they shall kill Him. And on the third day He shall rise again. But they understood none of this, and this word was hidden from them, and they did not know what was being said.” (Luke 18:31-34)

“And as they were coming down from the mountain, He ordered them not to relate to anyone what they saw, till the Son of Aḏam had risen from the dead. And they kept this matter to themselves, debating what the rising from the dead meant.” (Mark 9:9-10)

“And going from there they passed through Galil. And He did not wish anyone to know, for He was teaching His taught ones and said to them, “The Son of Aḏam is being delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill Him. And having been killed, He shall rise the third day.” But they did not understand the word, and they were afraid to ask Him.” (Mark 9:30-32)

The disciples struggled to grasp the meaning of the Master's words, and it is worth noting that he chose to share this information with them privately, away from public knowledge. Several chapters later, Yeshua is depicted teaching the Good News, which implies that this message couldn't have been solely about his death, as mentioned earlier. 

“And it came to be, on one of those days, as He was teaching the people in the Set-apart Place and bringing the Good News, that the chief priests and the scribes, together with the elders, came up.” (Luke 20:1)

This is the same Good News that Yeshua himself instructed his disciples to go out and teach way back in Luke chapter 9. 

“And as for those who do not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the dust from your feet as a witness against them.” And going out they went through the villages, bringing the Good News and healing everywhere.” (Luke 9:5-6)

It would not be until chapter 18 that Yeshua disclosed his fate to his closest disciples, which further illustrates that the Good News Yeshua taught and told his disciples to teach was not about his death, burial, and resurrection. 

If the gospel Yeshua taught was not about his death, burial, and resurrection, then what was it? Well, according to the author of Hebrews, it was the very same Good News given to the people who left Egypt.

“For who, having heard, rebelled? Was it not all who came out of Mitsrayim (Egypt), led by Mosheh (Moses)? And with whom was He grieved forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose corpses fell in the wilderness? And to whom did He swear that they would not enter into His rest, but to those who did not obey? So we see that they were unable to enter in because of unbelief.” (Hebrews 3:16-19)

“Therefore, since a promise remains of entering into His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. For indeed the Good News was brought to us as well as to them, but the word which they heard did not profit them, not having been mixed with belief in those who heard it.” (Hebrews 4:1-2)

We have received the very same Good News as those who were led out of Egypt, that being entering into a covenant with the almighty Elohim if we agree to do all that He says, i.e., keeping Torah. But take note that those in the wilderness did not profit from this because they did not trust in Elohim, as seen in the connection between rebellion, sin, disobedience, and unbelief.

“Since then it remains for some to enter into it, and those who formerly received the Good News did not enter in because of disobedience.” (Hebrews 4:6)

Yeshua Taught the Torah

We know that the Messiah taught a Torah observant lifestyle as evident in the following verses.

“Do not think that I came to destroy the Torah or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to complete. For truly, I say to you, till the heaven and the earth pass away, one yod or one tittle shall by no means pass from the Torah till all be done. “Whoever, then, breaks one of the least of these commands, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the reign of the heavens; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the reign of the heavens. For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall by no means enter into the reign of the heavens.” (Matthew 5:17-20)

Messiah himself said do not think he came to destroy the Torah, therefore do not let that thought enter your mind!

“Then יהושע spoke to the crowds and to His taught ones, saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on the seat of Mosheh. Therefore, whatever they say to you to guard, guard and do. But do not do according to their works, for they say, and do not do.” (Matthew 23:1-3)

When the scribes and Pharisees sat in the seat of Moses, they taught the Torah, but they did not practice what they preached and instead upheld the oral torah, which we now know as the Talmud. For more examples, please check out my “Torah” page.

Let’s examine a few mentions in the writings of the disciples and apostles about the good news, and see if it aligns with our interpretation.

Peter on the Gospel

“Therefore, having girded up the loins of your mind, being sober, set your expectation perfectly upon the favor that is to be brought to you at the revelation of יהושע Messiah, as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts in your ignorance, instead, as the One who called you is set-apart, so you also should become set-apart in all behavior, because it has been written, “Be set-apart, for I am set-apart.” And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, pass the time of your sojourning in fear, Knowing that you were redeemed from your futile behavior inherited from your fathers, not with what is corruptible, silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Messiah, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, foreknown, indeed, before the foundation of the world, but manifested in these last times for your sakes, who through Him believe in Elohim who raised Him from the dead and gave Him esteem, so that your belief and expectation are in Elohim. Now that you have cleansed your lives in obeying the truth through the Spirit to unfeigned brotherly love, love one another fervently with a clean heart, having been born again – not of corruptible seed, but incorruptible – through the living Word of Elohim, which remains forever, because “All flesh is as grass, and all the esteem of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the Word of Elohim remains forever.” And this is the Word, announced as Good News to you.” (1 Peter 1:13-25)

The divine word of Elohim is embodied in the Torah, His righteous instructions that guide us to live a life pleasing to Him. While the redemptive act of the Messiah's sacrifice and the shedding of his precious blood is indeed good news, it is important to understand that the Good News proclaimed by the Messiah, as mentioned by Peter, did not solely revolve around his death, burial, and resurrection. Rather, it focused on the proper path to the Father's heart, which is through the observance of the Torah. It is essential to recognize that Yeshua himself is the embodiment of the Torah in human form. This passage of scripture highlights Peter's message that we have been granted a fresh start. The old ways of living in the flesh are rendered obsolete for those who have been born again and are now willing and ready to live as obedient children. This transformation is indeed good news!

Paul’s Writings on the Good News

“But brothers, I make known to you the Good News, which I brought as Good News to you, which you also did receive, and in which you stand, through which also you are being saved, if you hold fast that word I brought as Good News to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For I delivered to you at the first that which I also received: that Messiah died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised the third day, according to the Scriptures.” (1 Corinthians 15: 1-4)

The death, burial, and resurrection of the Messiah are undeniably good news, but it is crucial to understand why they hold such significance. They represent the starting point of the restoration process for the lost sheep of the House of Israel, as Yeshua himself affirmed. This pivotal event symbolizes the opportunity for reconciliation and redemption, offering hope and a way for the scattered Israelites to be brought back into a renewed covenant relationship with their Creator. 

“And He answering, said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Yisra’ĕl (Israel).” (Matthew 15:24)

The Good News should not be understood through the lens of Christianity's perception, where the death of the Messiah is seen as a license to live according to personal preferences. It is not about selectively following certain commandments while dismissing others as archaic or coming from an angry deity. Rather, the Good News is intertwined with the gathering of the lost sheep, a process made possible by the death of the Messiah (bringing redemption to the Bride). This concept is echoed by Paul, who mentions it in the following passage: 

“Therefore, remember that you, once nations in the flesh, who are called ‘the uncircumcision’ by what is called ‘the circumcision’ (the pharisees) made in the flesh by hands that at that time you were without Messiah, excluded from the citizenship of Yisra’ĕl and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no expectation and without Elohim in the world. But now in Messiah יהושע you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of the Messiah. For He is our peace, who has made both one, and having broken down the partition of the barrier.” (Ephesians 2:11-14)

What was the barrier? It was the understanding that the divorced House of Israel could not return while their husband was still alive (Redeeming the Bride). Gentiles were never prohibited from joining Israel, as there are numerous examples in the Tanach (Grafted In). However, the divorced Israelites, who were separated from Elohim, faced a specific barrier. This is why the Good News that Paul refers to a few verses later is rooted in the prophecy that healing and restoration would come to all of Israel. 

“And having come, He brought as Good News peace to you who were far off, and peace to those near.” (Ephesians 2:17)

“I have seen his ways, but now I heal him, and I lead him, and restore comforts to him and to his mourners, creating the fruit of the lips: peace, peace to him who is far off and to him who is near,” said יהוה, “and I shall heal him.” (Isaiah 57:18-19)

With all this in mind, let us read Paul’s warning about accepting a false gospel, and ruminate on what that could be.

“For, indeed, if he who is coming proclaims another יהושע, whom we have not proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different Good News which you have not accepted, you put up with it well enough!” (2 Corinthians 11:4)

“I marvel that you are so readily turning away from Him who called you in the favor of Messiah, to a different ‘Good News,’ which is not another, only there are some who are troubling you and wishing to pervert the Good News of Messiah. However, even if we, or a messenger out of heaven, bring a ‘Good News’ to you beside what we announced to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, and now I say again, if anyone brings a ‘Good News’ to you beside what you have received, let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9)

Furthermore, the gospel preached by the Christian Church often promotes a message of disobedience through the lens of the Messiah's death. Moreover, they tend to vehemently criticize those who choose to follow Yeshua by obeying the Torah and living in accordance with the Father's will. The gospel they proclaim cannot be actively obeyed but is rather centered around a belief system (e.g., believing in Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for one's sins is all there is). However, the true Good News encompasses both belief and action. As demonstrated throughout this article, and finally with Paul and Peter themselves, the genuine Good News of the Kingdom of Elohim involves active participation and obedience to the Father's commands..

“In flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know Elohim, and on those who do not obey the Good News of our Master יהושע Messiah.” (2 Thessalonians 1:8)

“Because it is time for judgment to begin from the House of Elohim. And if firstly from us, what is the end of those who do not obey the Good News of Elohim?” (1 Peter 4:17)

Continue to test all things, including this article, and I pray that the Ruach Hakodesh leads you into all truth.

P.S.

Check out some of my books! Available in both print and Kindle versions.